New apprenticeship changes boost SME workforce growth

Following changes announced by the government that came into effect on 1 October, and earlier changes to the system announced in August, apprenticeships are said to be becoming an increasingly attractive option for SMEs looking to develop their own workforce.

Full details of the changes are published in a new document ‘An Employer’s Guide to Apprenticeships for the Fenestration, Glass and Glazing Industry’, published by Building Our Skills in association with key partner and apprenticeship specialists GFTS.

GFTS is a provider of fenestration, glass and glazing apprenticeships, with over 75% market share for fabricator, installer and curtain wall apprenticeships.

It also provides a wide range of administration and site apprenticeships covering other key business areas.

The changes to the apprenticeship system announced by government include

• From the 1 August 2026, apprenticeships can now be achieved in as little as eight months meaning qualified staff will be available to contribute fully in the workplace faster than previously.
• From 1 August, non-levy payers can claim 100% funding for apprentices between the ages of 18 and 24, and contribute only 5% towards the cost of an apprenticeship for those over the age of 25
• From 1 October, non-levy paying companies can claim a £2,000 incentive grant from the government.

Since the publication of the new rules, Sam Tinker, Business and Quality Manager for GFTS, is offering one to one support for any business thinking about apprenticeships for the first time.

She and her team are on hand to talk through what an apprenticeship is, how it works, what it costs and what an employer’s obligations and responsibilities are.

She believes the changes to the rules are especially positive.

She said: “The new measures announced in October, following on from those in August are excellent and really do incentivise employers to look at the apprenticeship route for bringing young people into their businesses.

“I know from experience that there is often uncertainty about what an apprenticeship is, or is not, and about what’s involved, but we can help employers to cut through all of that – from a basic overview all the way through to recruitment of apprentices and managing their programmes.

“Apprenticeships are open to both levy payers and non-levy payers, with different incentives and opportunities for each.

“The changes announced from 1 October that allow non-levy payers to access 100% funding for apprentices 16-24 years old plus a £2,000 incentive grant, makes this route especially attractive for those companies looking to future proof their own workforce.”

To view the full brochure click here: https://buildingourskills.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/Apprenticeships-for-the-Fenestration-Glass-and-Glazing-industry.pdf

Or contact Sam directly by email: sam@gftsltd.co.uk

Alternately contact Building Our Skills: sayhello@buildingourskills.co.uk